Thomas Batardière was a filmmaker before he turned his hand to natural wine. After three years under the mentorship of Mathieu Vallée at Château Yvonne in Saumur, he struck out with his own project in Rablay-sur-Layon, starting out with two hectares of his fave variety, Chenin Blanc. He’s expanded since to 3.5 hectares, growing some Grolleau and Cab Franc as well. His vineyards were certified biodynamic in 2015, and the wines somehow manage to combine power with ethereal minerality. An uncommon expression of Anjou, but a damn good one.